Because there are legitimate disagreements between left and right. These differences do matter and will make a difference in how society is governed, regardless of how people like Representative Jason Fields try to posture.

But here, right-winger Larry Kaufmann explains it quite well in the Isthmus:

Now that the recalls are over, some Madisonians believe our most urgent task is mending a body politic that’s been bruised and battered by the electoral combat of the last 16 months. Confrontation, demonstrations and petitions are out. Respect, tolerance and dialogue are in.

Respect and tolerance are always welcome, and last week Dave Cieslewicz contributed an admirable column to Isthmus urging Democrats both to speak the language of civility and find common ground with the broad political middle. Citizen Dave deserves a hearty two cheers for this piece, but he does overlook an essential component of common ground, which is a common understandingof what our problems are. This understanding exists on many specific political topics like education, but on the biggest long-term issue facing America — the size and scope of government — the divide between conservatives and progressives is huge. Without at least some consensus on this fundamental issue, the political battles of the next few years could make Wisconsin in 2011-12 look like the Era of Good Feelings.

Politeness and good manners are good things, but at the same time, the sort of generic let’s all come together and hold hands and sing Kumbaya are ridiculous ideas put out by those who are afraid of conflict, right-wingers pretending to be Democrats, and well-meaning moderates who think the Left can surrender our way to victory. We didn’t do so well the last election, the only thing left to do is pick ourselves up and keep fighting for what’s good for Wisconsin.